Yamaha Rhino Off-Highway Vehicles Recalled for Rollover Risk

Plain-English summary

Yamaha Motor Corporation U.S.A. is recalling approximately 145,000 Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model off-highway recreational vehicles. The recall addresses a safety defect where the lack of a spacer on the rear wheels and the presence of a rear anti-sway bar impair vehicle handling, posing a risk of rollover. These vehicles were sold at Yamaha dealers nationwide since Fall 2003.

CPSC staff has investigated more than 50 incidents involving these models, including 46 driver and passenger deaths involving the Rhino 450 and 660 models. More than two-thirds of the cases involved rollovers, and many involved unbelted occupants. Of the rollover-related deaths and hundreds of reported injuries, some of which were serious, many appear to involve turns at relatively low speeds and on level terrain.

Owners should stop using the affected vehicles immediately and contact their dealer to schedule a free repair. The repair includes installing a spacer on the rear wheels, removing the rear anti-sway bar, and installing half doors and additional passenger handholds where not previously installed. Yamaha has also voluntarily suspended the sale of these models until repairs are available.

The recalled product

Product

Rhino 450, 660, and 700 model Off-highway Recreational Vehicles

Category

Vehicle — Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle

Hazard

• rollover
• crash

Affected units

120,000

Distribution

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